Rider Conduct

The trails at Action Argyll Bike Park are rough, challenging and demanding on both bike and body. Therefore, only Mountain Bikes are permitted to be used on the trails at Action Argyll Bike Park.

We recommend the use of appropriately sized, modern, long-travel, full suspension bikes with good quality hydraulic disk brakes.

Safety of all riders is our priority

Before riding always inspect your equipment or have it checked by a qualified bike mechanic and check for any damage after each run of the hill and especially after a crash however minor. Do not ride on damaged equipment.

  • Helmets are mandatory, ensure that your helmet meets standard EN1078 as a minimum, is less than three years old, is in good shape and properly adjusted; we highly recommend the use of full-face protection helmets with higher levels of protection such as ASTFM F1952-DH. Gloves, eye protection and body armour are also highly recommended.
  • Inspect bike frame and forks for cracks, damaged or dented areas.
  • Ensure you have sufficient brake pads to stop your bike while descending; two working brakes are mandatory, and we highly recommend disc brakes for improved control.
  • Front and rear axles (quick release or bolt through type) should be tight.
  • Headset and stem must be secure with no looseness or play.
  • Check that your tyres are in good condition, with plenty of tread and no cuts or abrasions in the sidewall and that rims show no cracks or signs of weakness, and all spokes are tight and intact.
  • Handlebar and handlebar grips must be tight and unable to spin. Handlebars must have bar end plugs (or grips that fully enclose the end of the bars) installed. Due to the nature of our trails drop bars are not suitable or safe.
  • Seat and seat post need to be fastened securely and dropper seat posts checked that they are functioning correctly.
  • Check pedals are secure and do not have excessive play. Pedals with Toe Strap fastenings are not permitted to be used.
  • Suspension should be in good working order with no leaks or loose parts.
  • Fixed child carriers such as shotgun seats, rear rack seats or tag-a-long devices are not permitted.  Tow ropes may be used to assist riders up the hill but must not be used on descending trails.
  • E-bikes are welcome at Action Argyll Bike Park, but they must be classed as an EAPC (electrically assisted pedal cycle) and the motor should not propel the bike beyond 15.5mph. Bikes with a throttle assist are not allowed.

Please Note: If a senior member of the Action Argyll Bike Park team deems your bike to be unsafe, they will prevent you from accessing the trails.

MOUNTAIN BIKERS’ RESPONSIBILITY CODE

Regardless of how you use the trails, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Please adhere to the rules and code listed below and share with others the responsibility for a safe outdoor experience. Park privileges will be suspended for breach of this code.

Mountain biking is a potentially hazardous activity carrying a significant risk of injury including death. It should only be undertaken with a full understanding of all inherent risks.

  • Always carry a mobile phone during your visit and ensure the charge is sufficient to last the entire period that you are renting equipment from us. If in need of assistance contact 07435769249. If you have called an ambulance, please inform the visitor centre so we can assist in guiding them to you.

  • Avoid riding independently/alone where possible to maximise safety. Besides, it is also more fun riding with others.
  • Ride within your capabilities and keep your bike under control. It is your responsibility to avoid crashing into other riders and objects around you! Remember you are liable to pay in full the cost of any loss or damage of the bike/equipment.
  • Respect other riders and be aware of their varying skill level/knowledge.
  • Follow the one-way system on trails. Always look uphill when entering a trail/starting downhill to give way to other riders coming down.
  • Pull off the trail in a safe place if you need to stop or take a break for any reason. Do not stop in the middle of the trail to avoid damage to equipment or injury to yourself and others.
  • Respect other trail users and exercise caution when the trails cross other trails or walking routes.
  • Trail conditions change with the seasons and the weather; mountain biking is an all-weather sport but respect the added challenge and risk that rain, ice, dust and wind can pose to you.
  • Stick to the official marked Mountain Bike Trails as signposted and obey all signs and warnings.
  • Do not push or ride up downhill trails.
  • Respect the environment and area that we provide the services within – follow the ‘leave no trace’ principles.
  • Do not ride if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Riders 16 years of age and under must be always accompanied by a legal guardian (over 18).
  • Listen and follow instructions when making use of the uplift service – safety first!

Be aware that the bike park trails are set in a mountain and forestry environment which poses risks including:

  1. Forestry environment risks: trees, stumps, branches, brash and vegetation
  2. Mountain Environment risks: exposure to fast changing weather conditions, steep slopes, rocky areas and outcrops and exposed trail edges.
  • Trail conditions change with the seasons and the weather; mountain biking is an all-weather sport but respect the added challenge and risk that rain, ice, mud, dust and wind can pose to you. If it is windy, do not attempt jumps; keep both wheels on the ground and stay on the easier trails.
  • If a rider is hurt, do not move them, notify the Bike Park staff immediately.
  • Keep off closed trails and forest areas and obey all signs and warnings.
  • Stay on marked trails only. Do not cut switchbacks or modify trails.
  • Only ride the trails during opening hours. There is no access to the trails when the park is closed.
  • Do not push or ride up downhill trails.
  • Respect your environment; take your litter home with you!
  • Keep out of the Bike Park if your ability is impaired through the use of drugs or alcohol.
  • Be friendly, courteous, and respectful to your fellow riders, poor conduct will not be tolerated.
  • Riders 15 years of age and under must be accompanied by a legal guardian (over 18) at all times.
  • Please be aware of and courteous to walkers, horse riders and other user groups within the park boundary.
  • Please help us maintain the park. If you see a problem on the trails report it to us.
  • Know your limits!

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